An Insight about Possible Role of Imiquimod in Dermatology and Possible Benefit on Plane Warts: Review Article

Abstract

Background: Plane warts are smooth, flesh-colored papules that might be flat or raised slightly. Lesions can range in size from 1 mm to greater than 5 mm, and can number anywhere from a handful to the hundreds. The face, hands, and lower legs are frequent places for them to manifest. Scratching, shaving, and trauma can cause them to emerge in a linear pattern. Imiquimod enhances the immune system's reaction. Injecting imiquimod into a skin wound or ulcer triggers cytokine synthesis and activation of the innate and adaptive immune systems. This makes it an accessible alternative for the treatment of a wide range of dermatologic diseases, both benign and malignant. Objective: Assessment of the possible role of imiquimod in dermatology and possible benefit on plane warts. Methods: Research on Imiquimod, Skin cancer, and Genital warts was scoured through the databases PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct. The authors also analysed references from related works, but only included the latest or most comprehensive study between October 2000 and January 2021. Documents written in languages other than English have been disqualified due to a lack of translation resources. Dissertations, conference abstracts, and oral presentations were not included since they do not constitute "important scientific discoveries". Conclusion: Dermatologists have taken notice of imiquimod's recent rise to prominence as a useful immunomodulatory topical medication. However, the appropriate use and utilization of imiquimod in dermatology have been impeded by a lack of randomized controlled studies in the assessment of this potentially crucial medicine, as well as anecdotal evidence combined with varying treatment regimens.